By Oldrin Masowa
North-West University (NWU) student Itumeleng Sesiko is an upcoming athletic star. He won his first national medal at the age of 10 from Athletics South Africa (ASA) and is now on his way to becoming a professional cross country athlete.
Itumeleng is set to represent the NWU athletics team at the North West Province N12 ULTRA Marathon which will take place on 30 July 2022. On that day four different races will be run, and he will be taking part in the 10 km road race that will start and end at the Klerksdorp Recreation Centre.
Itumeleng is a final-year LLB student on the NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus, and was born and raised in Mohlakeng in Gauteng.
He discovered his love for running at the tender age of seven and has never looked back. Fortunately, he had the loving support and assistance of his parents.
Itumeleng prefers long-distance races, including cross country marathons and road-running competitions.
“I am still mastering my track races, and cross country racing is certainly more challenging. Some races are run on a muddy course, and it can be difficult as it requires more strength and extra caution when running,” says Itumeleng.
Itumeleng can still vividly recall winning his first national medal 13 years ago in Pretoria.
“I came second in the ASA 10,2km race for boys, and I can still remember how I felt – I still get goosebumps thinking about it.
“I have had a couple of top 10 finishes, and it really feels good to complete a race within the top 10 at nationals. Not everyone can do it every year, and it really requires good training and discipline,” adds Itumeleng.
Itumeleng says even though there are challenges, he remains focused on his career.
“Last year I thought it would be the end of my career when I discovered that I have a heart condition, but thanks to my team’s leadership and support, everything is back to normal.
“It is always a challenge to balance my studies and sport, but with good planning and discipline it can be done. Running has taken me places and I still believe there are more milestones ahead,” he adds.
Itumeleng shares his secret towards his success in cross country competitions.
“I believe the ability to get myself back up after a few setbacks is what makes me stand out from other runners. It can be hard sometimes to get back from injuries and other setbacks, but I still manage to compete at a high level.”
Itumeleng is happy to have partnered with organisations such as KPMG and Murray & Roberts, and is grateful to be part of the NWU Potchefstroom Track Club.
Itumeleng says he is inspired by couch Jean Verster, founder of the Track Club, and looks up to British long-distance runner Sir Mo Farah.
He wishes to leave a legacy which will inspire young children to realise the importance of sports and academics, and that you can pursue both.
“Sport helped me to be disciplined and focused on my academics, and I am where I am today because I balance the two. I will be so happy to represent the country while still working as an attorney,” adds Itumeleng.
Itumeleng Sesiko
